New York has signed a bill to consider reparations for descendants of enslaved people, creating a commission to study the state’s role in slavery and propose reparations.
The bill, sponsored by Democratic state Sen. James Sanders and state Rep. Michaelle Solages, aims to examine the state’s benefit from slavery and could recommend financial compensation.
The commission’s report will be nonbinding, intended to guide policy changes and programs to address the impact of slavery on Black New Yorkers. (Trending: Prominent LGBTQ Activist Arrested Over Disturbing Charges)
“Now in New York, we like to think we’re on the right side of this. Slavery was a product of the South, the Confederacy,” she said.
“It’s easy for us to pat ourselves on the back. … We can say we’re the heroes, we fought against slavery. And indeed, many did.”
“What is hard to embrace is the fact that our state also flourished from that slavery.”
“It’s not a beautiful story, but indeed it is the truth.”
With the signing of the bill, “We empower healing and proactive remedies for our communities,” Rep. Michaelle Solages posted.
“Fostering unity, addressing wounds, and working towards a healthier, stronger future.”
“I know the word ‘reparations’ brings up a lot of conflicting ideas for people. A lot of people instinctively dig in when they hear it, without really thinking about what it means or why we need to talk about it,” Hochul said.
“But I’ll say this: It’s essential to try.”
“Racial equity in New York and across the country is tantamount in creating systems that are beneficial for all ― specifically African Americans, who have historically been victims of discrimination and horrific injustice,” State House Speaker Carl Heastie said.
“This commission will study the impact racism and discrimination has had on our institutions and what legislative solutions and structures can be created to make lasting impact,” he added.
“We must create a world fit for the next generation.”
The move follows similar initiatives in California and cities like Evanston and San Francisco, reflecting a broader effort to address racial equity and systemic discrimination.
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